Traditional Cream Bathroom With Claw-Foot Tub

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Your master bathroom will be a key location in your home, so you'll want to explore the full range of master bathroom layouts before deciding which one is right for you.

Master bathrooms often come with their own set of distinct design considerations, particularly if they're located inside or adjacent to a master bedroom. In this case, the master bathroom will likely need to mirror or at least emulate the design of the master bedroom. This is by no means a requirement, but a severe stylistic departure may create too much "visual noise" in a space that's meant to be soothing and elegant.

Spa-Inspired Master Bathrooms

Romantic and Relaxing Master Bath

This master bathroom is detailed with beige limestone, white fixtures and chrome accents, creating a spa-like feel for everyday use. The candleholder behind the tub, made from reclaimed lumber from an old barn, adds a romantic, relaxing feel. Design by Gregory Augustine

Photo By: Designer, Gregory Augustine

Open Feel

This spa-like bathroom, designed by Andreas Charalambous, features a glass walk-in shower and a spacious two-person bathtub. The muted color palette with the dark-stained floating cabinet and double vanity make this space relaxing, while the uninterrupted mirror on one wall makes the space feel open.

Photo By: Designer, Andreas Charalambous

Panoramic Views

Inspired by the panoramic ocean view, this bathroom incorporates a saltwater fish tank as the focal point of the space. The fish tank is built into a partitioned wall and can be enjoyed while showering or getting ready in the vanity area. The shower is designed to provide a spa experience by using nine body sprays, a steam shower and rain-like showerheads on the ceiling. Design by Bruce Rosenblum

Photo By: Designer, Bruce Rosenblum

Feng Shui Bathroom

This spa-inspired bathroom, designed by Bruce Rosenblum, uses feng shui principles to create fluidity and positive energy flow while incorporating natural elements such as tumbled beach glass tile for the shower walls.

Photo By: Designer, Bruce Rosenblum

Relaxing Retreat

The beautiful tub is the focus of this relaxing space, especially with the water spout from the ceiling. The wall of candles sets the perfect atmosphere for relaxation at any time of the day or night. Image courtesy of Eldorado Stone

Photo By: Eldorado

Zen Garden

The tub with in-line heater sits in a river-rock-filled, drained fiberglass pan. A wood-textured porcelain tile floor follows the gentle curve of the tub and rock path. Design by Holly Rickert. Photo by Peter Rymwid

Photo By: Peter Rymwid

Soothing Bathroom Colors

This wave tub is perfect for a homeowner who loves baths. The tub contours to the body and makes bathing a truly spa-like experience. The soothing sage-tiled tub and walls, in combination with the touch of foliage and candles, enhance the relaxing atmosphere of this space. Design by Lori Dennis

Heavenly Hideaway Hotel Spa

A posh Paris hotel spa was the inspiration for this master bathroom. The cabinets are a replication of 18th-century French country cabinetry. A stunning wall of candle niches offers perfect pockets of glowing light. Photo by Ric Marder. Design by Ken Kelly in New York

Photo By: Designer, Ken Kelly

Small-Space Bathroom

Although it's a small space, this bathroom still achieves the spa-like atmosphere. Natural stone and dark woods contribute to the Zen-like feel in this sleek bathroom, and a frameless shower door gives the illusion of more space. Design by Jennifer Charleston

Photo By: Designer, Jennifer Charleston

Soothing and Simple Design

This oversized solid-stone tub was built in France and had to be lowered into the bathroom via crane through the skylight. But it was worth the effort. The tub and candles, with the muted walls and relaxing overall feel of the room, seem to beckon you to take a relaxing soak and unwind from the day. Design by SPI Design

Photo By: Sponsor, SPI Design

Beautiful Views, Natural Feel

With natural stone walls, unobstructed views through floor-to-ceiling windows, a steam shower for two and a tub carved from limestone, this master bathroom is the perfect spa-like experience. Design by Lori Dennis

Peaceful Serene Soaking Tub

One of the chief considerations for master bathroom layout is the size and location of the tub and shower. A common mistake in master bathroom design is to choose a tub or shower that's either too big or too small. Be sure to very carefully measure your space and estimate what size bathing space it can accommodate, as well as your own preferences. For instance, you might ask yourself whether a tub is essential in combination with a shower, or if you would prefer a larger "walk in" shower with more.

If a tub is definitely in the plans and space isn't an issue, consider a whirlpool or standalone tub in the center of the bathroom as a focal point.

When choosing double sinks, think hard about the amount of space that all of the users will need to both move freely when in the bathroom at the same time, and to store accessories.

Finally, if possible, install the toilet in a separate water closet enclosure within the master bathroom for enhanced privacy.